There is a lot going on in this growing mountain community.
Buena Vista is the county seat of Chaffee County, Colorado. Located 90 minutes west of Colorado Springs, and an hour south of Aspen and Breckenridge, Buena Vista is a growing community of people that enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. There are activities in and around the community all year-round, from skiing and snowmobiling excursions in the winter to mountain-biking and some of the best whitewater in the United States.
Every year this small mountain town gets better and better. Because of the year round outdoor activities available to residents and guests to Buena Vista, it has become and popular spot for locals and tourists alike. There are many different food & drink establishments open throughout the year, many offering healthy dining alternatives for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Excellent coffee shops, breakfast spots, and hatch green chili everywhere.
This is where to eat and drink in town.
Coffee
Brown Dog Coffee. On the highway, great breakfast burritos.
The Roastery. Some of the best organic coffee in the Rockies.
The Midland Stop. High end coffee in South Main. Gelatos.
Cool Beans. Quirky place a few blocks from the cabin.
Panchos. Has that Russian coffee Das Bog. Decent breakfast burritos.
Food
There are a number of excellent restaurants in this small mountain town. Some of the best are:
The Lariat. Upscale bar food. Historic original saloon backbar. Large TVs.
Asian Palette. Sushi and Thai dishes. Tricky drinks. Call for Reservation.
House Rock Kitchen. Great outdoor space, fresh tasty food. Kids play area.
Biggie’s Sandwiches. Best sandwiches in the Arkansas River Valley. Closed entire month of January.
Eddyline (Brewpub). Great smaller individual pizzas. Outdoor terrace.
Eddyline (South Main). Expanded menu, steaks, local fare.
Bars / drinks
There nighttime activities in downtown BV, more in summer than winter, and Don't Drink and Drive:
The Lariat. Newly renovated, live music, upscale bar food.
Deerhammer Whiskey Distillery. Local spirit distillery since 2010.
Eddyline Brewpub. Local award-winning brewery. Get a Chainbreaker IPA.
The Jailhouse. Upscale craft beer hall. New business, pretty cool space.
Hot Springs
Buena Vista is uniquely situated in the Arkansas River Valley in that there are natural hot springs located in the mountains above BV. Though there are a few secret spots available (have to pry it out of the locals), there are two excellent hot springs open to the public, year round: